I do a lot of lifting and carrying. How can I do it safely?

If you are required to do a lot of lifting and carrying, then your employer should provide training. Here is a basic checklist for safe lifting and carrying:

• Keep your back straight.
• Allow your thigh muscles (quadriceps) to do the work, rather than your back.
• Before lifting an object from the floor, take a wide stable stance and squat down.
• Keep your head up, back straight and stomach pulled in.
• Grasp the object firmly; pull it close to your body.
• Stand up in one slow, smooth movement.
• Keep your head up; push with your legs.
• When carrying a heavy object to another location, make sure you have prepared the route by looking out for obstacles.